"A year that looks good for Scotland in terms of form and fitness starts with a match vs Italy in Rome. This could be seen as a decent way to ease into the championship for Townsend's team, who enter the tournament with optimism for what feels like at least the fifth year on the bounce. Talented, experienced, mostly settled, this side has all the markings of a group that should be challenging for the title"
"How the Azzuri would love the same result today. Both teams have an open style of playing, reflected in this being only fixture of the opening round that features both sides with a 5:3 split in the subs. Most coaches are favouring as much beef as possible off the bench, but Gregor Townsend and Gonzalo Quesada prefer more craft in their options."
Scotland begins the Six Nations in Rome against Italy with strong form, fitness and an experienced, settled squad led by Gregor Townsend. The side carries optimism and is viewed as a title contender despite a historical tendency to underperform in the tournament. Italy field a backline including Leonardo Marin, Louis Lynagh, Juan Ignacio Brex, Tommaso Menoncello and Monty Ioane with a mix of front‑row and back replacements. Both teams favour an open style and have selected benches with more backs than the usual heavier forward options, reflecting coaches who prioritise craft and attacking variety. Italy upset Scotland in 2024, underlining the fixture's unpredictability.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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